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209 articles for “lightweight materials”
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Effect of Water Absorption on the Mechanical Properties of Oil Palm Empty Fruit Bunch (OPEFB) Reinforced Polymer Composite
Abstract: Natural fibres are progressively picking up attention as their applications are diversified into multiple industries which includes the automotive industry where lightweight materials are of utmost importance. The demand for natural fibre reinforced polymer matrix composites was nevermore as predominant as it is today. Oil palm empty fruit bunch (OPEFB) fibres are natural fibres and contribute to an eco-friendlier substitute when compared to synthetic fibres. These fibres are obtainable in …
Published in Journal of Materials & Metallurgical Engineering · Vol. 15, Issue 1, 2025 · pp. 11–26 Read article
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Optimizing Green Composites for Automotive Applications Using Taguchi-Based Grey Relational Analysis
Abstract: The increasing demand for sustainable and lightweight materials in the automotive industry has driven the exploration of green composites as an alternative to conventional synthetic composites. This study focuses on optimizing the mechanical properties of green composites using Taguchi-based Grey Relational Analysis. Four natural fibers—pineapple, sisal, coir, and Nava—were reinforced with cashew resin and synthetic resin matrices, incorporating silica and granite fillers of varying sizes. Key properties, including hardness, impact …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 13, Issue 5, 2025 · pp. 743–754 Read article
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Experimental Analysis and Design Proposal of Banana Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composites and Computer Analysis
Abstract: This study presents a comprehensive experimental investigation and design model development using banana fiber reinforced polymer (BFRP) composites. The primary aim is to evaluate the mechanical and physical performance of the composite, with particular emphasis on tensile strength, flexural strength, and water absorption characteristics. These properties are critical for applications in industries such as transportation and construction, where durability, lightweight materials, and cost-effectiveness are essential. Banana fibers, being natural, renewable, …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 13, Issue 6, 2025 · pp. 901–907 Read article
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Development of Solar Powered Automatic Cotton Picking Machine Using Movable Robotic Arm: A Review
Abstract: Cotton harvesting is a labor-intensive process, with traditional manual methods being inefficient and costly. Mechanized systems, such as spindle pickers and strippers, offer higher productivity but are expensive, bulky, and prone to crop damage. Robotic cotton-picking systems, integrated with artificial intelligence (AI) and computer vision, provide a promising alternative for selective and precise harvesting. This review examines advancements in robotic arm-based cotton picking, focusing on boll detection using AI, challenges …
Published in Journal of Advancements in Robotics · Vol. 12, Issue 3, 2025 Read article
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Energy-Efficient Design Strategies for Sustainable Machine Tool Development
Abstract: The design of energy-efficient machine tools is essential for promoting sustainable manufacturing, as it addresses the significant energy consumption and carbon emissions generated by these tools in industrial settings. This study investigates innovative design approaches that enhance energy efficiency, with a focus on lightweight materials, improved drive systems, smart control frameworks, and methods for recovering energy. Implementing lighter structural materials allows machine tools to operate with less force, which in …
Published in Trends in Machine design · Vol. 12, Issue 3, 2025 · pp. 30–34 Read article
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The Tech That Makes Space Travel Possible: From Earth to Orbit
Abstract: Space flight was once only a dream, but it has now become one of the most important achievements of modern science and engineering. This article looks at the technology that make it possible to travel from Earth to orbit, with a focus on the complex systems that make space missions safe, efficient, and repeatable. It looks at how rocket propulsion has changed throughout time, from classic chemical engines to new …
Published in Research & Reviews : Journal of Space Science & Technology · Vol. 15, Issue 1, 2026 · pp. 26–33 Read article
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Enhancement of Mechanical and Tribological Properties of Aluminum-Titanium Carbide (Al-TiC) Metal Matrix Composites via Powder Metallurgy
Abstract: Metal matrix composites (MMCs) have emerged as a result of the increasing need for sophisticated lightweight materials with exceptional mechanical and tribological qualities. For structural and wear-critical applications, aluminum-based composites supplemented with ceramic particles such as titanium carbide (TiC) have shown great promise. In this work, aluminum-TiC composites made by powder metallurgy a process that guarantees even particle dispersion, regulated porosity, and the creation of near-net shapes are fabricated, mechanically …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 3, 2026 · pp. 366–374 Read article
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Exploring the Role of Advanced Composite Materials in Current Electric Vehicles
Abstract: This paper examines the pivotal role of advanced composite materials in the realm of current electric vehicles (EVs). With their exceptional qualities and lightweight nature, composites have become the preferred material across diverse industries. Conventional internal combustion cars, notorious for their heavy and inefficient design, have exacerbated pollution levels, particularly in urban areas. In response, lightweight composite materials are gradually replacing heavier metals in vehicle production, offering enhanced durability, fatigue …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 12, Issue 3, 2024 · pp. 47–55 Read article
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Multi-Objective Optimization of Polymer-Based Functionally Graded Composites for Lightweight Structures
Abstract: Functionally graded composites (FGCs) improve lightweight structural performance by allowing material properties to change smoothly across a component. Polymer-based FGCs (P-FGCs), in particular, are gaining prominence in aerospace, automotive, and biomedical industries due to their excellent strength-to-weight ratio, tunability, and ease of processing. However, optimizing these materials for lightweight structural applications requires addressing conflicting design objectives, such as maximizing stiffness while minimizing weight or enhancing thermal resistance while maintaining manufacturability. …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 2, 2026 · pp. 961–973 Read article
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Design and Analysis of S-Glass Heat Exchanger
Abstract: This research work focuses on the composite material named S-Glass fibre Heat Exchanger, since the existing designs of heat exchangers are generally made up of metals which produce a critical amount of heat loss to the surrounding from the shell. These are also less corrosive resistant, have low life and high weight. To overcome these drawbacks, use of composite materials has become essential. There is a need to redesign it …
Published in Journal of Thermal Engineering and Applications Read article
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Evaluation of Mechanical Properties of Terminalia Chebula and Teak Wood Sawdust Reinforced Polymer Hybrid Composites
Abstract: This study examines the mechanical characteristics of polymer hybrid composites augmented with sawdust from teak wood and Terminalia chebula (Kadukkai). To examine their effects on mechanical performance, the composites were made with different percentages of biofiller (10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, and 50%) while keeping the proportions of the two reinforcements same. Tensile, flexural, and impact tests were performed to assess their strength properties. The findings showed that flexural strength varied …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 13, Issue 5, 2025 · pp. 469–476 Read article
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Enhancing Mechanical and Durability Properties of Coconut Shell Concrete Using Fly Ash
Abstract: The increasing demand for sustainable and lightweight construction materials has driven research into alternative aggregates for concrete production. This study investigates the mechanical and durability properties of coconut shell (CS) concrete with varying percentages of fly ash replacement. The research evaluates compressive strength, split tensile strength, water absorption, and workability to determine the feasibility of CS concrete as a structural material. Experimental findings indicate that incorporating 10% fly ash (CSF10 …
Published in Recent Trends in Civil Engineering & Technology · Vol. 15, Issue 2, 2025 · pp. 19–24 Read article
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Geopolymer Concrete with Cenosphere as Fine Aggregate: A Material Characterisation
Abstract: Geopolymer concrete (GPC) is regarded as the successor to traditional concrete as it eliminates the requirement for conventional Portland cement during its manufacturing process, hence decreasing CO2 emissions. This study employed Cenosphere, which are lightweight fine materials, to partially substitute the volume of sand in GPC. Cenosphere was utilized in proportions of 20%, 40%, 60%, and 100%. This experiment examined the fresh and hardened characteristics, durability against freezing and thawing, …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 12, Issue 1, 2024 · pp. 143–151 Read article
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Enhancement of Thermo-hydraulic Properties of a Novel Composite-Based Spiral Fin Tube Heat Exchanger: An Experimental Investigation
Abstract: It is now crucial for engineers to enhance procedures and boost heat exchanger efficiency. Heat exchanger performance can be significantly enhanced by a variety of methods. Composite-based fins or enlarged surfaces are frequently utilized to increase the air-side heat transfer rate in a variety of heat transfer applications. Because composite materials are lightweight, highly thermally conductive, and resistant to corrosion, they were used. A composite based fin's efficiency is influenced …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 13, Issue 5, 2025 · pp. 238–251 Read article
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Innovations and Comparative Analyses in Foam Concrete: A Review of Emerging Techniques and Materials
Abstract: Foam concrete, recognized for its lightweight and eco-friendly properties, is gaining prominence as a sustainable construction material. However, challenges such as low mechanical strength, performance variability, and limited environmental resistance have prompted significant innovations in recent years. This study synthesizes findings from three key studies focused on enhancing foam concrete’s performance through nanomaterials, natural fibers, and alternative lightweight aggregates. The incorporation of nano-silica and nano-calcium carbonate into coal gangue foam …
Published in Trends in Transport Engineering and Applications · Vol. 12, Issue 3, 2025 Read article
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Development of a Polymer-Encapsulated IoT-Based Sensor for Thermal and Electrical Protection of EV Batteries
Abstract: Electric Vehicles (EVs) mark a critical shift toward sustainable transportation, with Battery Management Systems (BMS) playing a vital role in ensuring battery safety, reliability, and efficiency. The proposed BMS in this project incorporates real-time charge monitoring, temperature sensing, and fire detection capabilities to address safety concerns associated with lithium-ion batteries. Key features include current and voltage tracking, State of Charge (SoC) estimation, fault detection, and a user-friendly LCD interface. By …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 13, Issue 6, 2025 · pp. 582–591 Read article
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Experimental Investigation of Polymer Composite-Based Protective Structures for Mitigating Crash-Induced Mechanical Abuse in Lithium-Ion Batteries
Abstract: The objective of this paper is to determine the effectiveness of using polymer composite protective structures to protect against the mechanical abuses associated with crash impacts that affect lithium ion batteries in terms of their structural integrity and their overall safety. In addition to their use in electric vehicles, lithium ion batteries are also being increasingly used in renewable energy based energy storage systems because they have high energy densities, …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 4, 2026 Read article
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Next-Generation Lightweight Nanocomposite Structures for Electric Mobility
Abstract: The rapid expansion of the electric vehicle (EV) sector has intensified the demand for battery enclosures that are lightweight, mechanically strong, thermally stable, and environmentally sustainable. This research focuses on the design and sustainable fabrication of hybrid nanocomposites for advanced EV battery housings. The proposed material system integrates carbon fiber, glass fiber, and graphene nanoplatelets within a bio-based epoxy matrix, resulting in improved mechanical strength, enhanced thermal stability, and superior …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 1, 2026 · pp. 1147–1156 Read article
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Thermo–Electrical Performance Enhancement of a Lightweight Polymer–Metal Hybrid Electrostatic Precipitator Using Epoxy-Based Composite Housing for Industrial Particulate Control
Abstract: Airborne particulate emissions, particularly PM₁₀ and PM₂.₅ produced by industrial activities and combustion processes, they continue to pose a significant threat to both the environment and public health. Electrostatic precipitators (ESPs) are widely recognized for their ability to achieve high collection efficiencies; however, conventional metallic constructions often lead to increased system weight, higher fabrication costs, and long-term corrosion-related challenges. In this study, a lightweight hybrid material approach is proposed by …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 2, 2026 · pp. 652–668 Read article
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Functionally Graded Natural Fibre and SiC-reinforced Polymer Composite: Mechanical Properties
Abstract: Multifunctional materials, also called functionally graded materials (FGMs), are based on natural fibres or fillers and vary in composition and/or microstructure to control functional, structural, or thermal, properties. Functionally graded materials (FGMs) have been created for use in spacecraft, aircraft, and other engineering applications because they can withstand extremely high temperatures. Particle-reinforced FGMs, which make up the majority of FGMs, are made differently depending on their position. The mechanical and …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 11, Issue 4, 2023 · pp. 1–14 Read article